Rain barrels all the rage for eco-conscious yards

Rain barrels, which hook into your gutters to catch rain coming off your roof, are being sold for $75 in a joint conservation project by Haywood Waterways Association, the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce and the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service in Haywood County. Proceeds will benefit each organization.

Rain barrels are good for water conservation and are an investment for maintaining healthy gardens and landscaping. During drought they provide a source of water for irrigation, and reduce the strain on rivers and wells. By capturing and retaining rainwater they help reduce stormwater impacts when it does rain.

The 55-gallon barrels are made from recycled pickle containers. They are fitted with connections for a garden hose, overflow pipes or to connect multiple barrels in series. The barrels also have a drain and bug screen. The tops can be removed for easy cleaning and maintenance.

The barrels will be at the Agricultural Service Center on Raccoon Road, on Thursday, May 26 from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.